My hero. ❤❤❤ I burst into tears when I saw
@whiteoakfarmer
pulling up on the shoulder coming towards me. I'm sure I was quite the pathetic sight. 😅🤣 He put his life at risk to help me, a total stranger, and I will NEVER forget it. Can't put into words how thankful I am.
@NYGfan4ever
Oh, don't get me started. My 15 year old asked me if she was racist because we celebrated the 4th of July! She said almost everyone is saying that on social media. I went. OFF! This is sick!
Getting ready to leave for the Mardi Gras Ball. I don't usually get the chance to dress up, so I'm a little out of my comfort zone. But it should be a really fun night! Not sure what to expect, just going to embrace it! 💃🥂
To all of you who have prayed for me & wished me well, I have some awesome news! I have a new job w/an outdoor outfitter in a cute little mountain town, & I am BEYOND excited! This is such a perfect fit for me, w/a wonderful company. I get to share my outdoor passion EVERY DAY!😃
So yesterday in this storm, stuck in the road due to all the fallen tree branches, I get out in the pouring rain to try to drag them out of the road. By the time I'm done, there are 8 cars waiting. I know there were "men" watching me do all that. No one got out to help.Pretty sad
This is what dogs do who are dumped. They sit & watch for their person to come back. No matter how awful that person is, they still love them. There's no traffic on this mountain road, so no worries. But she's been sitting there for awhile. Time for some treats & some lovins. ❤
How glorious it was to hike today with NO RAIN GEAR for once! 😃 Ignore my hair, there were other issues. Lol. This short but tough hike had a great view as the reward! Buzzard's Roost,Hartford, TN. Comedy act coming down, let me tell you. Thank goodness there were no witnesses.
If you could spare a prayer this morning for my Gracie girl, I'd appreciate it so much.She has a couple issues going on & she's off to the vet today. I *think* she'll be ok, but at 12.5, you never know. She's my best friend, never leaves my side. I need her for awhile longer.❤🙏
In an effort to distract you all from the fact that I didn't catch any fish, I thought I'd share this pic from my hike up to my fishing spot. What could be better than a hike AND fly fishing?! Grateful to be here!
Scary situation about to unfold on the TN/NC line in and near the National Park. There's a pretty big wildfire burning and we're about to get hit with 80 mph winds. Please keep the firefighters and people who live here in your prayers. 🙏
If you all could say a prayer for my safety, I'd appreciate it. Blow out on I-40 in the mountains, on the road side too. Dangerous spot. I'm on my own for this one. 🙏
So the other day, I shared pics of my campsite my last night on my little section of the AT. My campsite is just over the ridge. I cooked my dinner on a big boulder up in this clearing. My version of "Dinner And A Show." Three wild ponies hung out with me all afternoon and night.
Today I had the honor of shaking hands with & saying thank you to a Purple Heart recipient from the Vietnam War. All of
@44MagnumBlue1
's tributes to Vietnam vets flashed through my mind as I looked him in the eye, gripped his hand, and told him how grateful I am. Moving moment.🇺🇸
I think I'm going to build this little cabin, in the mountains, someday. *insert laughter here* 😅 I've never so much as cut a piece of wood, but I'm certain I could do it. How much fun would that be?! It looks like it's leaning in the pic, so mine can't be any worse, right?! 🤣
I might be saying goodbye to this big teddy Bear of a dog tomorrow. My heart hurts already.💔But this was the goal. 🙏If you could say a prayer for him, I'd appreciate it. I have no doubts this would be an awesome home for him. As they say,"Love isn't love,til you give it away."
I don't like to do this, & I don't do it often, but I'm asking for prayers tonight. I know I have the best people as Twitter friends, so if you have a sec to throw a prayer out there, I'd appreciate it so much. Nobody died, nothing like that. So don't worry. Just need prayer. 🙏
Feel good moment of the day. Tonight at The Island in Pigeon Forge, I went into Annie Anne's to grab a pretzel. This young man in front of me, who was all of maybe 22 years old, paid for mine. I asked why & he said because he wanted to, w/the biggest smile. Had to hug the kid.😊
Watching this big guy from my back yard this morning. So neat to watch him pass by and wander into the river to get a drink. I could watch him all day. What a special treat for me to get to be here among such beautiful creatures. 🦌🍁🍂
I love my new job. Not only am I immersed in all things outdoorsy, but the owners are really awesome people. They said to just bring Gracie to work if I wanted. This saves her from so much separation distress. I don't think they'll ever know how much this means to me. 🐶❤🙏
Knocking off another wish from my list. Camping in the snow. It is everything I'd imagined it would be. Set up camp with no snow at all and woke up to this scene. Just like I had wished for. Pure heaven.
Retweeting this pic. Deleted the other one because of rude comments from people who know nothing about me. So here it is again. Little moose right off the bike path I was riding today. He's too cute not to share.
Somebody dumped 2 hunting dogs last night. 😑 Not sure where the second one went, but they are starving. This one at least has meat on her bones. The other one is super skinny. Some people really suck. I found a no kill shelter 1 hour away, so at least I can take them somewhere.
Just finished my little solo backpacking trip. Beautiful night on Brier Ridge just me and 3 wild ponies. Broke camp this morning just as the rain set in. I was cold, wet, and sore at the end, but had such an incredible time!!! My best memories are out there in the wilderness.⛰🧭
Got my knots tied, rod ready, and tried to look as much like a legit fly fisherman as I can. Lol. Working with what I've got here. Just waiting for this storm to pass and then my first attempt at fly fishing will be underway! Pray for me! 😅🤣😂🎣
That warm sunshine hits differently on a cold fall day. The contrast of that chilly air on your face, filling your lungs, and the warmth of that sunshine on your face, is one of life's greatest pleasures. For me anyway. Makes you feel so alive. 🧭🥾😊
When you want to get to Exclamation Point bad enough, and you have a 13 year old dog, your choices are: 1. Don't go & be grouchy, or 2. Carry her up half of the 830 steps to the top. I chose
#2
. And it was worth every gasp of breath. Lol. I need one of those backpacks for dogs!
Dinner and a Show! 😃😊 Sitting here after work eating a Firehouse Sub in my truck, look up and HELLO! More are coming towards me as I'm posting this. Have I mentioned how much I love being here??? 😅🥰😊
Just a quick update.Went to see Ranger after work & told him his new life starts tomorrow.I plan on breaking him outta there around 1 & we'll be off on our road trip!Should be 8 hours start to finish, but I'll have a smile on my face the whole time. He even seems to be smiling.🥰
Just a thought on the vaxx. I understand both sides of wanting it/not wanting it. But here's some food for thought. Has it occurred to some that there are people like me w/an underlying health issue where the shot is actually more of a threat than the virus? Shouldn't we all 1/4
Satchel Paige once said, "How old would you be if you didn't know how old you are?" Live like Gracie. 15 years old and still catching air. Eyes wide with excitement.
#liveallout
#nolimits
Gracie. ❤ 15. I have to lift her up into the truck. She has a bit of trouble getting up. But out on the trail? She flies like the wind. I couldn't get her to stop running back and forth on our hike. The happiness on her face as she'd zoom by me melted my heart. A perfect memory.
A little target practice this evening! First time shooting a 12 ga shotgun and gosh, am I in love! Got knocked back a bit, lol, but adjusted fairly quickly. The guys said it's a must to drink a beer afterwards, and since I felt bada$$, I did just that!😃😄 Loving that Bullpup! 😍
Tears are sneaking out of my eyes and rolling down my cheeks right now. This country. The anguish people are feeling as they learn their loved ones are gone. The anger. I've never ever felt so much anger. Not even 9/11. That was the enemy that did that. There's a difference.
It's National Black Dog Day, and mine is my very best friend! Black dogs are euthanized in shelters at a higher rate than other dogs. Please consider a black dog when looking to adopt! No matter the color though, rescues are the best. ❤🐶
Just wanted to pop in here and say "Hi" to you all. Down with C*vid, so haven't been on much the last week or so. I miss you guys! I hope you are all doing well and enjoying this week leading up to Christmas! 🎄
I will update you all later this afternoon, and catch up on comments. But I wanted to let you know that sweet little abandoned Reggie, and Gracie and I are road trippin' to her new family. Prayers for a smooth transition for this sweet girl, please. You all are the best. 🙏❤
Sitting out here in my kayak, watching the fish jump out of the water while the sun sinks below the treeline. Listening to the red wing blackbirds, bullfrogs, geese, & all the other critters making their presence known.The water looks like glass, cool breeze blowing. So peaceful.
I always wanted one of these hats as a kid, but Noooo! You think my mom would get me one? 😒😐😄 Nothing but pink ribbons and pig tails for little Molly. Well, she can't stop me now! 😂🤣
After an unsuccessful 3 hour trip to the shelter, the dogs are back w/me tonight.They have to stay outside, but they have full bellies & a soft place to sleep. It's all I can do. They now have names. The white one is Pearl, the brown one, Regina. "Reggie" for short.
@Bigroad67
❤
Reggie (Regina) needs a home. As you know, she & her sister were dumped, her sister found a wonderful home in FL. Now this sweet girl needs her miracle. I cannot keep her, she needs a home ASAP. All shelters are full here. Please network & help me find her a good home. 🙏❤
Well, another camping adventure has come to an end. But goodness, were we blessed with some amazing weather and great moments! Back to reality. Dog gone it! 😏😊
Had to trade in my hiking boots for heels for a wedding today. Telling Alexandra I came home from the mountains a few days early for this, better not be getting divorced anytime soon! 😅🤣
My friend Bob, who I met a couple weeks ago kayaking at the state park, sent me this pic he took of an Osprey with his dinner. I absolutely love it! Those 👀! I think it's a really cool shot. Had to share with you guys. 🙂
Well. This is what happens when you don't have a signal to check weather. You go fishing w/o a hat & of course it rains. But the fog rising from the water afterwards made the 'wet dog' look worth it. 😅☺️So much for my good hair day. 🤷♀️😐That guy didn't catch anything either.😃😂
I'll get up early on my day off for one thing, and one thing only. A cool hike. It also helps when the drive to the trailhead has pretty scenery like this. Check out that cloud formation over the mountains! 😍 I thought it was pretty cool!
Okay you guys, I can finally tell my secret! Look who adopted Bear! One of my favorite Twitter friends, who is now a friend in real life. She has a beautiful heart to go along with her outward beauty. Bear is one lucky dog, and my heart is so full knowing he has found his home.❤
Over the weekend, we adopted this sweet boy, Bear! He’s adjusting well and has already stolen our hearts! I also got to meet a sweet Twitter friend
@IsenbargerMolly
She’s just as beautiful in person as she is on here. ❤️🐶
I moved to a new place today, with wifi, finally!😃and I'm sitting here with my windows open listening to the sounds of nature at twilight. I'm being serenaded by a bull elk bugling nearby. Over & over again. It's moments like these that remind me why I am on this journey. 🫎⛰️🧭
One last thing before I go to bed. Remember that words cut like a knife. They're powerful, & can cut a person to their core. They can ruin a person's happy day in an instant. On the flip side, kind, encouraging words breathe life. They can keep a person going. Choose kindness.❤️
I always enjoy the times I get to spend with my sister. We're only 2 hours apart, but that's just enough that it's hard to get together much. But we sure make up for lost time when we do get together. And gosh, do we laugh. 🤣🥰 So thankful for her.
I'm trying to give Gracie as many good moments as I can. What dog wouldn't love a walk in the woods on a beautiful fall day?! We move a little slower these days, but that's okay. This is HER time. ❤
I could use some prayers for my sweet Gracie tonight. Something happened and I thought I was going to lose her. She seems to have recovered now, but I'm really worried about her. Dreading leaving her alone during my work day later today, so any prayers are appreciated 🙏❤
I gave up everything to follow my dream. I've lost a lot. But I'm determined to be where I'm meant to be. And when I'm out here, I have no doubt I made the right choice. This is my backyard. I can do the things I've dreamed of my whole life. In spite of the losses, I am blessed.
Goodbye, Smoky Mountain National Park. Hello long, open road. This is like culture shock right now. 😄 Too much noise! 😅 But getting through The Gorge with all 4 tires in tact and no lost bikes or kayaks is a big sigh of relief! And I have wifi now, so WOOHOO! 😃😂
Loving these longer days. And Gracie loves our after dinner strolls up the gravel road, nice not having any traffic to worry about. The night has a summer feel to it. So relaxing. 😊
This Thanksgiving wasn't the warm, happy one I've been used to all my life, but I tried to make the most of it. Skeleton crew working today, so my coworker & I decided last minute to cook ourselves a T-Day meal very spur of the moment. Not bad for winging it at work! Fun memory.
Well. Thanks to the incredible kindness & generosity of a friend who wishes to remain anonymous, I have an awesome dog backpack for Gracie. She can now go on the longer hikes w/me. We gave it a try tonight around the property & she did great! We will try it on trail tomorrow!😃😄
Since Gracie can't do long hikes anymore, I decided she'll just go kayaking with me instead! I bought her a foam seat pad so she'd be comfy...look how she ends up sitting (1st pic)🙄😄The two of us didn't set any speed records out there, but she loved it. And so did I.❤🐶🥰
For those of you who pray, if you could say a little prayer for me, I'd greatly appreciate it. I need something job related to happen for me & it's kind of a long shot. So I need my friends here who have a little pull w/God to help me out. I know I can count on you. Thanks!😊🙏❤️
Nothing like taking a nice lil break by a peaceful creek when out of nowhere *plop*. A 🐦 decides to 💩 on me. In my hair, down my shirt, all down my pants. At least I was by the water & could rinse it off! And it did make me laugh. This is just par for the course w/me. 🙄😅😂
All I wanted was one nice selfie with Bear on our hike, and do you think he'd cooperate? Heck no! Little stinker. This is the best we could do. 😏😄 We had a blast out in the woods though. He's a beast!
Sometimes, there really aren't adequate words for what I see. This moment was one of those times. I just stood there & felt God's presence w/me in that moment. These are the moments when I know I'm going to be okay. If God can do all this, He can take care of lil ol' me, too. ❤
Two of the best things in life: Having my dog by my side, and making a hot drink after hiking to a mountaintop on a chilly autumn day. Just sitting up there taking in that view, with Gracie napping at my feet, soft breeze blowing is pure heaven.
This is why dogs are the best. Maddie isn't my dog, but look at the affection she gives to me. The love. She doesn't care that my electricity was out & I was grungy as a bum & had outta control hair, hence the hat. Dogs don't care about the superficial. They just love. 100% 🐶💕
So it finally happened. I did something I'm not proud of & I swore I'd NEVER do. I utilized the 5 second rule. I put off having my snack til I got to this spot, I was starving! And my protein cookie fell on the ground.😒😅 I mean, if the ground is frozen, there's no germs, right?
Saw these guys on the side of the road this morning. Broken down vehicle. It's hot and horribly humid. If you look close, behind the mailbox, there is a cop under the hood, trying to fix it for them. Definitely not in his job description. Going above and beyond. 🖤💙🖤
FINALLY!!!!! Words cannot describe how amazing it felt to be BACK OUTSIDE, hiking with my best buddy, enjoying the snow and peacefulness of the woods! Enjoyed it so much, kept on hiking after it got dark. I know better than to take health for granted, & C*vid reminded me of that!
Every time I go past this sign, I get annoyed. 🙄😅 First, because I'm reminded the elevation is 885 feet. Second, because they actually made a sign to mark it! 😐Why?! Surprised they haven't built a Visitor's Center here yet. 😏 I gotta get out of here. Somebody save me! 😂
I'm just hopping on here & reading your replies from my earlier post. It's been a long, emotional day & I'm spent. Seeing the kind words & all the prayers, I'm reminded that good wins. Between my wonderful coworkers & you all, I can go to sleep knowing I'm blessed.
#BeStill
It turned out to be a beautiful day after all. Bear is in his new home, I got to meet a beautiful Twitter friend in person, and now it's just Gracie and me again. We stopped in Black Mountain on our way home to walk for a bit and to dry my eyes. 😭 I'm so happy for Bear. ❤️❤️❤️
Hi guys! 👋 I can't say I love the early work mornings, BUT! Getting off early enough to hike or kayak after work IS kinda nice! The humidity broke for a bit and it's a beautiful evening! Come along and enjoy the beauty with me, please! ⛰️🧭🤗
Look at us two losers. 😂🤣 I think there's an unwritten rule that when camping, you have to take a nap. Plus, how could I say no to this precious fur baby? So nap it is! She's probably got poison ivy oil all over her fur & tomorrow I'll be covered in it, but I like to gamble.😅
For Christians, this is the day that gives us our ultimate Peace, and our ultimate Hope. Thank you, Jesus, for your Perfect Love. He Is Risen!!! ✝️☀️🕊🙏 Happy Easter to all! ❤️
Today is Gracie's day to have fun on the trails. And a relaxing hike for me to just enjoy the sound of the stream and that filtered sunlight shining through the trees. She is one happy dog right now. 😊🐶🥰
Hiking w/an old dog involves compromise. She runs like crazy, but when there's elevation gain, needs a rest. So we just nap on the trail.☺️She will sleep anywhere if I'm by her side. I'd rather rack up miles, but took advantage of the quiet & just enjoyed the moment w/my girl. 🥰